AMHERST, N.Y. — The University at Buffalo will be requiring spectators to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination to attend certain events this season.

"UB will require proof of vaccination to attend events at UB Stadium, which would be our football games,” said John DellaContrada, UB vice president of communications. “Alumni Arena, which would include our men's and women's basketball games. Center for the Arts on campus, which would include our distinguished speaker series events, and then any concerts held at Slee Hall.”

What You Need To Know

  • UB requiring spectators to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination to attend certain events this year
  • The mandate applies to football games at UB Stadium and men's and women's basketball games at Alumni Arena
  • The policy takes effect on October 1 and also applies to those attending public cultural events at Slee Hall and the Center for the Arts

Starting Oct. 1, attendees will have to show proof of at least one dose of the vaccine. And after Oct. 30, those who want to attend events must show they have fully completed their vaccination series. Adults and those under the age of 12 will have to wear a mask indoors.

DellaContrada says 99% of UB's student population is vaccinated, and this is a precaution for campus visitors.

“The football games attract about 15,000 to 16,000 people,” DellaContrada said. “Basketball games seating capacity is 6,100.”

Distinguished speakers series events can also draw thousands of people depending on the speaker, and DellaContrada says there are some big names coming to campus this year's event.

"We know that COVID-19 cases continue to rise in our region, throughout the state and elsewhere, so we wanted to be proactive and make sure the University at Buffalo is doing its part to prevent future spread of the virus,” he said.

Proof of vaccination include a vaccination card, a photo of a vaccination card, an Excelsior Pass or a digital vaccine card. Attendees should also bring a photo ID as well.